How Much Does A Saint Bernard Cost?

Last Updated on August 2, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With their gentle, loving demeanor and striking appearance, it’s no wonder Saint Bernards are such a popular giant breed dog. But welcoming one of these lovable gentle giants into your family does require considerable financial planning and commitment. So how much does a Saint Bernard really cost?

Understanding both the upfront and ongoing costs allows you to make an informed decision when adding a Saint Bernard to your family. This guide covers everything potential owners need to know about the costs of this large, lovable breed.

How Much Does A Saint Bernard Cost?

The upfront purchase costs of a Saint Bernard puppy typically range $1,500 to $3,000. Then owners should budget another $2,000 to $4,000 annually for food, medical expenses, supplies, grooming and other recurring ownership costs. Over a lifetime, expenses will easily exceed $20,000 or more.

For a purebred Saint Bernard puppy from a reputable breeder, expect initial costs of:

• Pet quality puppies – $1,500 to $2,500
• Show quality puppies- $2,500 to $3,500+

Several factors influence the exact purchase price:

Breeder Reputation and Location

More sought-after breeders can charge $500 to $1,000+ higher prices than average area rates thanks to their exceptional expertise and breeding quality. Geographic location also causes some pricing variation.

AKC Registration and Pedigree

Puppies offered with full AKC registration papers verifying date of birth and breed purity command $200 to $800 higher prices on average. Champion pedigrees also boost costs.

Individual Puppy Attributes

Coat coloring, how closely the puppy conforms to the breed standard, temperament testing results, and other unique traits affect pricing for each individual puppy.

When researching breeders, be wary of very low prices that may be indicative of questionable backgrounds and poor health or conditions. Focus on quality over cost savings.

Spirit Dog Training reports that the average cost of a Saint Bernard puppy ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, while adopting an adult Saint Bernard from a shelter can cost anywhere between $50 to a few hundred dollars.

Lebernard.ca states that in Canada, the average price for a purebred Saint Bernard puppy from a reputable breeder should range between $2,000 and $4,000, which typically includes microchipping, deworming, first vaccination, registration, and a health guarantee.

Adopting from a Canadian shelter costs an average of $500 to $600, which covers spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and parasite treatment.

Spot Pet Insurance estimates that the monthly costs for owning a Saint Bernard in the US include $80-$95 for food, $50-$70 for grooming, and $700-$1,200 for medical expenses. They also mention one-time costs such as $500-$600 for initial supplies, $50-$70 for microchipping, and $250-$300 for vaccinations.

Dogster reports that Saint Bernard puppies typically cost between $500 to $1,500, with $1,000 being a more reasonable mid-range price. They break down the monthly costs, estimating $300-450 per month for health care, food, grooming, and entertainment.

The PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) in the UK states that owning a Saint Bernard will cost a minimum of £105 per month after purchase and set-up costs, and up to £17,000 across their lifetime. They emphasize the importance of considering all the costs associated with owning a large breed dog.

Annual Saint Bernard Ownership Costs

The first year is the most expensive, with initial vet fees, supplies, and startup costs. Expect first year expenses around:

• Puppy purchase price – $1,500 to $3,000
• Food and treats – $600 to $1,000
• Vet costs (shots, checkups) – $400 to $1,000
• Grooming supplies and services – $500 to $700
• Training courses and private lessons – $200 to $500
• Crates, beds, bowls, toys – $500 to $1,500
• Miscellaneous expenses – $300 to $500

Total First Year Expenses: $4,000 to $8,000

The first year has the highest costs due to the initial supplies you must purchase. You also need more frequent veterinary visits for puppy shots and spay/neuter procedures.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Tibetan Mastiff, Alaskan Malamute, or Caucasian Shepherd.

Feeding a Saint Bernard

These large breed dogs require high-quality nutrition tailored for their growth requirements. Estimated annual food costs:

• Puppy food – $40 to $80 per month
• Adult food – $80 to $120 per month
• Treats and supplements – $30 to $60 monthly

Total food costs: $1,000 to $1,500+ for the first year

Homemade, raw, or boutique diet plans may cost slightly more. Prioritize quality nutrition to support proper joint, bone, and development.

Saint Bernard Veterinary Costs

The first year is most expensive for medical costs:

• Initial puppy vet visit – $75 to $200
• Vaccines and deworming – $100 to $300
• Spay/neuter surgery – $300 to $600
• Wellness checkups – $200 to $400
• Medical issues – $300+ per incident

Make sure to budget for spay/neuter around 6 months old. Look into pet health insurance, as Saints are prone to costly bone/joint issues.

Grooming Expenses

These large, fluffy dogs require weekly brushing and bathing every 6-8 weeks. Yearly costs include:

• Shampoo and brushes – $50 to $150
• Professional baths/brushing – $500 to $700+
• Nail clippers – $25 to $40
• Muscle relaxing conditioning spray – $15 to $25

Regular grooming maintenance helps manage shedding and promotes bonding.

Training Costs

Formal training is highly recommended to teach good manners and proper socialization. Expect costs of:

• Group obedience classes – $150 to $300
• Private in-home lessons – $500 to $1,000+
• Training treats and toys – $50 to $150

First year training costs typically run $700 to $1,500. The investment leads to a better-behaved dog.

Saint Bernard Supplies

These gentle giants require size-appropriate sturdy supplies:

• Extra-large crate – $250 to $600
• Rounded chew-proof dishes – $50 to $100
• Strong leash/collar combo – $50 to $75
• Variety of tough toys – $150 to $300
• Large comfy dog bed – $100 to $250
• Grooming table or tub – $150 to $350

First year supply costs easily reach $1,000+. Prioritize durability for safety.

Additional Saint Bernard Ownership Costs

Other miscellaneous first year costs may include:

• Registration fees if AKC registered – $75
• Cleaning help for shedding issues – $500
• Repairs from puppy chewing – $200+
• Strong fencing for safety – $1,000+
• Temperature regulating HVAC use

Ensure your home can accommodate an extra giant furry family member!

Annual and Lifetime Ownership Costs

While the first year is the priciest, Saint Bernard care involves major ongoing annual costs:

• Food – $1,000+
• Medical expenses – $500 to $2,000+
• Grooming – $500 to $1,000
• Supplies/misc expenses – $500+

Over the 10–14-year lifespan, lifetime costs often total $20,000+. Proper planning and budgeting is essential.

Tips for Managing Saint Bernard Costs

While Saint Bernards involve major upfront and ongoing expenses, some tips to minimize costs include:

• Take advantage of puppy health bundle packages from vets
• Buy largest bag sizes of quality food for volume discounts
• Learn to groom at home as much as possible
• Prioritize basic training for behavior; skip expensive advanced programs
• Find free fenced areas for exercise instead of paid dog parks
• Utilize preventive care and insurance to control medical costs
• Create savings funds for future puppy or emergency needs

Do not skimp on essentials that impact your dog’s health and behavior. But look for cost-saving opportunities to offset major expenses.

Final Words

Saint Bernards make wonderful additions to families looking for an affectionate, loyal big breed dog. But their large size does require an equally sizable commitment both financially and practically.

Saint Bernards truly make gentle, loving additions to families able to properly care for their extensive needs. But with $1,500 to $3,000+ purchase prices and $2,000+ in annual costs, the financial commitment required is sizable.

While not cheap, a well-bred and properly cared for Saint Bernard will reward your investment with years of affection and devoted companionship. Understanding the costs allows you to welcome one of these special dogs into your life with realistic expectations.

Answers to Common Questions

What to know before buying a Saint Bernard?

Research breeders thoroughly, budget for expenses, have space for a giant breed, prepare for shedding/drool, plan for training/socialization, anticipate exercise needs, and consider health issues like bloat and bone/joint problems.

Is a St. Bernard high maintenance?

Yes, Saint Bernards require more grooming, training, exercise, medical care, and overall maintenance compared to smaller dogs. Their giant size also makes travel and caretaking more difficult.

How long can Saint Bernards be left alone?

Saint Bernards should not be left alone for more than 4-6 hours since they can develop separation anxiety. They need companionship and should have a family member home most of the time.